Certification Overview

NSCA certifications are for dedicated, knowledge-hungry, hardworking strength and conditioning professionals. When you have an NSCA credential on your resume you elevate yourself. You become the standard that employers seek when hiring strength and conditioning positions. NSCA certifications can help differentiate you from the competition while joining the ranks of some of the top experts in the industry. If you’re ready, rise to the occasion. Equip yourself with the tools needed to apply evidence-based research to positively impact the health, lives, and athletic performance of others.

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®)

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. They conduct sport-specific testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs and provide guidance regarding nutrition and injury prevention. Recognizing that their area of expertise is separate and distinct, CSCSs consult with and refer athletes to other professionals when appropriate.

Certified Special Population Specialist® (CSPS®)

Certified Special Population Specialists® (CSPS®) are fitness professionals who, using an individualized approach, assess, motivate, educate, and train special population clients of all ages regarding their health and fitness needs, preventively, and in collaboration with healthcare professionals. Special populations include those with chronic and temporary health conditions.

Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator® (TSCA-F®)

Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitators (TSAC-F) apply scientific knowledge to physically train military, fire and rescue, law enforcement, protective services, and other emergency personnel to improve performance, promote wellness, and decrease injury risk. They conduct needs analyses and physical testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs, and provide general information regarding nutrition. Recognizing their area of expertise is separate and distinct, TSAC Facilitators consult with and refer those they train to other professionals when appropriate.

Certification

How to Maintain Your Certification

In order to maintain a certification, the NSCA requires Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every three years. The recertification process is earning CEUs, reporting them online & paying the recertification fee at the end of the three-year cycle. Learn more about CEU requirements and how to recertify.